Quad ESL-63 and low-powered amps; Sun Audio, Atma


Looking for opinions about suitability of low-powered amps with my 63's. I currently have an Audio Note M3 pre, CJ MV-60 amp. Importantly, I cross the Quads at line level at 100 hz, first order with nice Vandersteen MH-5 crossovers to Vandy 2wq subs. So the main amp is relieved of much work below 50 hz or so.

Specifically, I am looking at Atma-sphere s-30 MkII OTL 30 watt amp, and possibly even a Sun Audio 2a3 SET 3 watt amp.

Given my crossover, does this lighten the load (power or impedance) in such a way that these amps would work fine? I imagine the Atma will have no issues, but what about the Sun?

Finally, I would love to hear any opinions about the relative sonic characteristics I might hear between the CJ, Atma and Sun. I listen to 50% acoustic jazz, 25% classical, 25% rock. 60% on vinyl... SOTA w/Grace 714 and Grado Ref Sonata1. CD is CEC transport to Audio Note 3.1 Signature. I value musicality and rich midrange over endless detail and "neutrality".

Thanks all.
montaldo

Showing 3 responses by tomic601

@montaldo contact made, will most likely send them....kid and dog frying voltages floating around.......ha....
@atmasphere I am hoping to build your kit monoblocks someday, perhaps to run the 63

@montaldo yes i have tried calling twice today, no answer, no voicemail- it is summer...i sent an email....nice website, boards, etc...certainly looks like expertise and a valuable resource for sure....
been a very very long time since I have mucked about with ESL-63..we sold them alongside KEF, Acoustat, ADS, Vandersteen, Beveridge, Infiniti, etc....
last time I owned a set of Quads was the 57 with a CJ45...lovely....

so i bought a pair at auction here for a song....anyway, they of course need rebuilding...which will actually be great learning fun...

plan to run them with my 1961 MC240

enjoy the music.....